Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a thorough investigation into a viral video showing a group of armed individuals in uniform performing a military drill and saluting Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The footage, which has sparked widespread condemnation and criticism, has raised concerns about the legality and propriety of the event.
In a statement released by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, on Sunday, Atiku expressed outrage over the incident, describing it as a gross violation of military traditions. The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) demanded accountability, calling the event an affront to the integrity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
“It is with utter dismay and concern that Nigerians were subjected to a nauseating video circulating online, where a group of young men, armed and in full military procession, bestowed upon the President’s son unwarranted military honours,” the statement read.
Atiku questioned the legitimacy of the group, identified as the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” stating that it is not a recognised entity within the Nigerian Armed Forces. He further decried the misuse of the term “cadet,” traditionally associated with formally trained military personnel, and alleged that civilians had exploited the title to tarnish the military’s esteemed traditions.
“In an effort to uncover the truth behind this shameless procession, we instructed our legal team and military experts to investigate the so-called ‘Nigeria Cadet Network.’ To no one’s surprise, it was revealed that the group is not a legally registered entity,” Atiku added.
He also raised concerns about the display of firearms during the parade, noting the grave implications at a time when illegal arms proliferation poses a significant threat to national security.
The former Vice President called on relevant security agencies to urgently investigate the incident, urging them to address critical issues such as:
- The legitimacy of the ‘Nigeria Cadet Network’ and its use of the title “Cadet.”
- The origin and legality of the firearms displayed during the event.
- The propriety of military honours granted to a non-designated public figure by civilians.
Atiku stressed the importance of preserving the integrity of the Nigerian Armed Forces, stating that any legal violations should be prosecuted to maintain public trust.
“If it is determined that any laws were violated by the President’s son or members of the so-called ‘Nigeria Cadet Network,’ it is the constitutional duty of Nigerian security agencies to ensure accountability,” he said.
Tinubu Camp Responds
Sources close to the Tinubu family have downplayed the incident, describing it as a show of solidarity organised by youth supporters, rather than an official military endorsement.
One organiser, who spoke anonymously, claimed the event was orchestrated by a voluntary paramilitary-style group as a gesture of appreciation for Seyi Tinubu, whom they view as a role model.
“The parade was simply an honour by a youth-based civic group, not the military,” the source said. “Seyi Tinubu has inspired many young people, and this was their way of expressing support.”
Analysts Weigh In
Political analyst Dr. Amina Yusuf noted the public’s sensitivity to perceived abuses of power in Nigeria. “The backlash is understandable, but it’s important to establish whether this was an official military event or merely a civilian gathering mimicking the military,” she said.
The Nigerian military has yet to release an official statement, leaving many unanswered questions about the legality and broader implications of the event.
PRESS RELEASE@atiku slams full military honours accorded President’s son, calls for probe
*Says its desecration of highly revered regimented age-long military tradition
Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria and the nation’s leading opposition figure, has strongly… pic.twitter.com/I6GUmcaKGz
— Paul Ibe (@omonlakiki) December 29, 2024